Daniel 7:13

KJV

I saw in the night visions, and, behold, [one] like the Son of man came with the clouds of heaven, and came to the Ancient of days, and they brought him near before him.

KJV (with Strong's)

I saw {H1934}{H2370} in the night {H3916} visions {H2376}, and, behold {H718}, one like the Son {H1247} of man {H606} came {H858} with {H5974} the clouds {H6050} of heaven {H8065}, and came {H4291} to {H5705} the Ancient {H6268} of days {H3118}, and they brought him near {H7127} before {H6925} him.

Complete Jewish Bible

"I kept watching the night visions, when I saw, coming with the clouds of heaven, someone like a son of man. He approached the Ancient One and was led into his presence.

Berean Standard Bible

In my vision in the night I continued to watch, and I saw One like the Son of Man coming with the clouds of heaven. He approached the Ancient of Days and was led into His presence.

American Standard Version

I saw in the night-visions, and, behold, there came with the clouds of heaven one like unto a son of man, and he came even to the ancient of days, and they brought him near before him.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Daniel 7:13 presents a pivotal prophetic vision of a heavenly court scene where a figure described as "one like the Son of man" approaches the "Ancient of days" amidst the clouds of heaven. This dramatic arrival signifies the transfer of ultimate authority and eternal dominion from the divine sovereign to this human-like figure, establishing a kingdom that will supersede all earthly powers and endure forever. The verse is a foundational text for understanding the messianic identity and future reign.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Daniel 7 records a profound vision Daniel received during the reign of Belshazzar, immediately following the historical narratives of chapters 1-6. This chapter marks a significant shift from historical accounts to apocalyptic prophecy, introducing a series of symbolic visions. The immediate literary context for verse 13 is the preceding verses (Daniel 7:1-12), which describe four terrifying beasts emerging from the sea, representing successive oppressive earthly kingdoms. These beasts are depicted as violent and destructive, culminating in the "little horn" of the fourth beast, which speaks blasphemies and persecutes the saints. Against this backdrop of earthly chaos and tyranny, Daniel 7:9-12 introduces the heavenly court, where the "Ancient of days" takes his seat for judgment. It is after this judgment, where the dominion of the beasts is removed, that the "Son of man" appears, signaling the establishment of a new, eternal kingdom that will replace the transient earthly empires.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Daniel's visions occurred during the Babylonian exile, a period of profound national crisis and despair for the Jewish people. They were under foreign domination, and the future of their covenant relationship with God seemed uncertain. The imagery of beasts rising from the sea is common in ancient Near Eastern mythology, often symbolizing chaotic forces or powerful empires. The concept of a divine council or heavenly court, with God as the supreme judge, was also a familiar motif in ancient Israelite thought, providing assurance of divine justice and sovereignty over human history. The "clouds of heaven" were universally understood as a symbol of divine presence, glory, and often, theophany or divine judgment, as seen in the Exodus narrative where God descends on [Mount Sinai in a cloud](/exodus/19-9 "Exodus 19:9 - God's Presence on Sinai"). This vision would have offered immense hope to a people longing for liberation and the restoration of God's righteous rule, promising that despite present oppression, God's ultimate plan for an everlasting kingdom would prevail.
* **Key Themes:** Daniel 7:13 contributes significantly to several overarching themes within the book of Daniel and biblical prophecy. The primary theme is **Divine Sovereignty and Kingdom Succession**, illustrating God's ultimate control over history and the rise and fall of nations. Earthly kingdoms are temporary and ultimately judged, while God's kingdom is eternal. Another crucial theme is the **Messianic Hope**, particularly through the introduction of the "Son of man" figure. This figure, though human-like, possesses divine authority and receives an everlasting dominion, foreshadowing the coming of a unique deliverer. The imagery of "coming with the clouds" reinforces the theme of **Divine Manifestation and Authority**, associating the Son of man with God's own glorious presence and power, similar to how God appeared to Israel at [Sinai](/exodus/19-16 "Exodus 19:16 - God's Presence at Sinai"). Finally, the theme of **Judgment and Vindication** is evident, as the Son of man's arrival follows the judgment of the oppressive beasts, signifying the ultimate triumph of righteousness and the vindication of God's people. This vision provides a powerful counter-narrative to the despair of exile, pointing to a future where God's just rule is fully established.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Son (Aramaic, _bar'_):** (H1247) Corresponding to the Hebrew "ben," this Aramaic term signifies a "son" or "descendant." In the phrase "Son of man" (bar 'enash), it denotes a human being, but in this prophetic context, it points to a unique individual who embodies humanity while simultaneously possessing divine attributes and authority, distinguishing him from ordinary men.
* **Ancient (Aramaic, _ʻattîyq'_):** (H6268) This Aramaic word means "venerable" or "ancient." When combined with "days" (yôwm), it forms the title "Ancient of days," a majestic and profound designation for God. It emphasizes His eternal existence, timelessness, and supreme authority as the primordial and ultimate sovereign judge, existing before all creation and time.
* **Clouds (Aramaic, _ʻănan'_):** (H6050) Corresponding to the Hebrew "anan," this term refers to a "cloud" or "nimbus," often associated with thunder-clouds. In biblical imagery, clouds frequently symbolize God's presence, glory, and often, His coming in judgment or salvation. The Son of man's arrival "with the clouds of heaven" therefore signifies a divine, majestic, and authoritative advent, linking him directly to God's own mode of appearance.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"I saw in the night visions":** Daniel recounts his experience of receiving this prophetic revelation. The phrase "night visions" indicates that the vision was given during the night, likely in a dream-like state, a common means of divine communication in the Old Testament, emphasizing its supernatural origin and profound significance.
* **"and, behold, [one] like the Son of man":** This introduces the central figure of the vision. The phrase "like the Son of man" (Aramaic: _k'bar 'enash_) is crucial. "Like" (_k'_) suggests a human-like appearance, emphasizing his true humanity, yet it also implies a distinction, indicating that he is more than just an ordinary man. He is a unique, representative human figure, yet also possessing extraordinary, divine qualities and destiny.
* **"came with the clouds of heaven":** This describes the manner of his arrival. The "clouds of heaven" are consistently associated with the divine presence and glory in the Old Testament, often signifying a theophany or divine manifestation (e.g., God's appearance on Mount Sinai, the glory cloud in the tabernacle). His coming with clouds therefore signals a divine, majestic, and authoritative advent, indicating his heavenly origin and divine approval. It is an arrival of power and glory.
* **"and came to the Ancient of days":** This specifies the destination of the Son of man. The "Ancient of days" is a title for God, emphasizing His eternal, venerable, and supreme authority. The Son of man's approach to the Ancient of days signifies his direct access to the divine throne and his reception of authority from the ultimate sovereign. It is a scene of divine investiture.
* **"and they brought him near before him":** This final clause details the presentation of the Son of man. The passive voice ("they brought him near") suggests that heavenly attendants or angels are facilitating this approach. The act of being "brought near before him" implies a formal presentation and an act of commissioning or enthronement, setting the stage for the dominion and kingdom described in the subsequent verse (Daniel 7:14). It underscores the divine initiative and the Son of man's appointed role.

#### Literary Devices
Daniel 7:13 is rich in **Symbolism** and **Imagery**. The "night visions" themselves are a symbolic medium for divine revelation, transcending ordinary human perception. The central figure, "one like the Son of man," is a profound **Symbol** of both humanity and divine authority, foreshadowing a unique individual who perfectly embodies both. His arrival "with the clouds of heaven" is powerful **Imagery** that evokes divine presence, glory, and majesty, directly linking the Son of man to God's own sphere of activity. The "Ancient of days" is a majestic **Symbol** of God's eternal nature, supreme sovereignty, and judicial authority. The entire scene employs **Anthropomorphism** in depicting God as "Ancient of days" seated on a throne, making abstract divine attributes more comprehensible to human understanding. The **Dramatic Shift** from the chaotic earthly beast kingdoms to the orderly heavenly court underscores the ultimate triumph of divine order and the establishment of an eternal kingdom.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Daniel 7:13 is a cornerstone of Old Testament prophecy, providing a profound theological statement about the nature of God's ultimate kingdom and the identity of its ruler. It establishes the concept of a divine, yet human-like, figure who receives universal and eternal dominion directly from the ultimate sovereign, the "Ancient of days." This vision speaks to God's absolute control over history, demonstrating that despite the rise and fall of oppressive earthly empires, His eternal plan for a righteous kingdom will prevail. The unique portrayal of the "Son of man" lays the groundwork for later messianic expectations, emphasizing both his identification with humanity and his transcendent, divine authority, setting him apart as the appointed heir to an everlasting throne.

* [Psalm 8:4-6](/psalms/8-4 "Psalm 8:4-6 - Man Crowned with Glory and Honor")
* [Matthew 24:30](/matthew/24-30 "Matthew 24:30 - The Son of Man Coming on Clouds")
* [Revelation 1:7](/revelation/1-7 "Revelation 1:7 - Every Eye Will See Him")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Daniel 7:13 offers profound comfort and assurance to believers across generations. In a world often dominated by oppressive powers, political instability, and moral decay, this verse reminds us that there is a higher court and an ultimate authority. The "Ancient of days" is on the throne, and He has appointed a "Son of man" to establish an eternal kingdom that will never be overthrown. This vision invites us to place our hope not in transient human systems or leaders, but in the sovereign God and His appointed King. It calls us to live with an eternal perspective, knowing that all earthly powers are temporary and subject to divine judgment. Our ultimate allegiance belongs to the King of kings, whose dominion is everlasting. This truth should inspire us to persevere in faith, to live righteously, and to participate in the advancement of His kingdom, confident in His ultimate victory.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the vision of the "Son of man" coming to the "Ancient of days" challenge our understanding of earthly power and authority?**
* **In what ways does the imagery of "clouds of heaven" reinforce the divine nature and authority of the "Son of man"?**
* **How does this prophecy provide hope and assurance in the face of present-day challenges or oppressive systems?**
* **What practical implications does the knowledge of Christ's ultimate, eternal dominion have for our daily lives and priorities?**

### FAQ
**Who is the "Ancient of days" in Daniel 7:13?**

Answer: The "Ancient of days" is a majestic and unique title used in Daniel 7 to refer to God the Father. This title emphasizes His eternal existence, His venerable wisdom, and His supreme authority as the ultimate sovereign and judge over all creation and history. He is depicted as the one who presides over the heavenly court, rendering judgment against the oppressive earthly kingdoms and delegating ultimate authority to the "Son of man."

**What is the significance of the "Son of man" coming "with the clouds of heaven"?**

Answer: The phrase "with the clouds of heaven" is highly significant, carrying strong theological weight. In the Old Testament, clouds are frequently associated with God's presence, glory, and divine manifestations (theophanies). For instance, God appeared to Israel in a cloud at [Mount Sinai](/exodus/19-9 "Exodus 19:9 - God's Presence on Sinai") and led them through the wilderness by a [pillar of cloud](/exodus/13-21 "Exodus 13:21 - Pillar of Cloud by Day"). Therefore, the "Son of man" coming with clouds signifies a divine, majestic, and authoritative arrival. It indicates his heavenly origin and his intimate association with God's own power and glory, distinguishing him from any mere human ruler and foreshadowing his role as a divine agent.

**How does Daniel 7:13 relate to Jesus Christ?**

Answer: Daniel 7:13 is one of the most crucial Old Testament prophecies pointing directly to Jesus Christ. Jesus frequently used the title "Son of Man" to refer to himself, more than any other title, thereby identifying himself as the fulfillment of Daniel's vision. For example, in [Matthew 24:30](/matthew/24-30 "Matthew 24:30 - The Son of Man Coming on Clouds") and [Mark 13:26](/mark/13-26 "Mark 13:26 - The Son of Man Coming in Clouds"), Jesus explicitly states that the "Son of Man" will come "in the clouds with great power and glory," directly echoing Daniel's prophecy. This connection underscores Jesus' dual nature: truly human ("Son of man") yet possessing divine authority and destined to receive an everlasting kingdom from God the Father ("Ancient of days").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Daniel 7:13 finds its profound and ultimate fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. The "one like the Son of man" is unmistakably Jesus, who frequently adopted this very title for Himself, more than any other, throughout the Gospels (e.g., [Matthew 8:20](/matthew/8-20 "Matthew 8:20 - The Son of Man Has Nowhere to Lay His Head"), [Mark 10:45](/mark/10-45 "Mark 10:45 - The Son of Man Came to Serve")). This self-designation by Jesus was a direct claim to the divine authority and universal dominion prophesied in Daniel. While Jesus first came in humility, suffering, and service, His resurrection and ascension marked His presentation to the "Ancient of days." As [Acts 1:9-11](/acts/1-9 "Acts 1:9 - Jesus Ascends to Heaven") describes His ascension into a cloud, it foreshadows His promised return in glory, also "with clouds" ([Matthew 24:30](/matthew/24-30 "Matthew 24:30 - The Son of Man Coming on Clouds"); [Revelation 1:7](/revelation/1-7 "Revelation 1:7 - Every Eye Will See Him")), fulfilling the majestic arrival depicted by Daniel. At His ascension, Christ was indeed "brought near" to the Father, receiving "all authority in heaven and on earth" ([Matthew 28:18](/matthew/28-18 "Matthew 28:18 - All Authority Given to Jesus")), and being seated at His right hand ([Ephesians 1:20-23](/ephesians/1-20 "Ephesians 1:20-23 - Christ Seated at God's Right Hand")). Thus, Daniel 7:13 is not merely a historical prophecy but a living testament to Christ's present reign and His future glorious return, when His everlasting dominion will be fully and visibly established over all nations and peoples, ushering in the eternal kingdom of God.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Matthew 26:64

Jesus saith unto him, Thou hast said: nevertheless I say unto you, Hereafter shall ye see the Son of man sitting on the right hand of power, and coming in the clouds of heaven.

Revelation 1:7

Behold, he cometh with clouds; and every eye shall see him, and they [also] which pierced him: and all kindreds of the earth shall wail because of him. Even so, Amen.

Luke 21:27

And then shall they see the Son of man coming in a cloud with power and great glory.

Revelation 14:14

And I looked, and behold a white cloud, and upon the cloud [one] sat like unto the Son of man, having on his head a golden crown, and in his hand a sharp sickle.

Matthew 24:30

And then shall appear the sign of the Son of man in heaven: and then shall all the tribes of the earth mourn, and they shall see the Son of man coming in the clouds of heaven with power and great glory.

Mark 14:61

But he held his peace, and answered nothing. Again the high priest asked him, and said unto him, Art thou the Christ, the Son of the Blessed?

Mark 14:62

And Jesus said, I am: and ye shall see the Son of man sitting on the right hand of power, and coming in the clouds of heaven.